NorthLakes Community Clinic has added two more Behavioral Health providers to its Eau Claire team. Pamela Kraus, MA, LPC, SAC, and Nathan McKeefry, LPC, now offer care for patients of NorthLakes Community Clinic, at the organization’s Eau Claire – Clairemont Avenue Clinic. Their addition to the organization expands its Behavioral Health Services and enhances the clinic’s ability to serve the community. And while they are unified in their dedication to patient-centered care, both therapists bring their own unique skills and approaches with them.
Pamela Kraus is a Behavioral Health Therapist and Substance Use Disorder Therapist at our Eau Claire – Clairemont Avenue Clinic.
Pamela Kraus is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Substance Abuse Counselor with a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Lakeland College in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Vocational Rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin – Stout in Menomonie, Wisconsin, and an Associate of Science in Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counseling from Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Kraus’s professional focuses include personality disorders, behavioral addictions and recovery. The Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder provider is also interested in dual diagnosis and is passionate about providing LGBTQIA+ and gender-affirming care.
When asked about her approach to care, Kraus said, “My philosophy is deeply rooted in person-centered therapy. It is the balm of empathy and acceptance – along with treating individuals with dignity and respect.”
She also advises her patients to “relax,” explaining that they will be in a safe, caring environment during their visits… “I am here to listen and ensure you are heard. We will work together at your pace on what is most important for you to live your best life.”
In her personal time, Pamela Kraus enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and running – which she humorously refers to as “sashaying.” She also loves to travel and spend time with her family, friends, and her beloved black lab, Duncan.
Nathan McKeefry is a Behavioral Health Therapist at our Eau Claire – Clairemont Avenue Clinic.
Nathan McKeefry, also a Licensed Professional Counselor, has a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wisconsin – Stout in Menomonie, Wisconsin, and a Bachelor of Science with majors in both Human Development and Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. Additionally, he received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
McKeefry enjoys working with a diverse range of individuals, particularly children and adolescents facing behavioral and emotional challenges, such as depression, anxiety and/or trauma. He also provides care for adults with similar concerns.
“I consider my approach to care to be somewhat eclectic…I draw from a variety of treatment methodologies that I have experience with or have been trained in, based on what will be most effective for the client. This is determined collaboratively, through assessment and through the process of getting to know their circumstances. Adjustments are also made based on what is working and what is not.” McKeefry also said, “I am a proponent of CBT and play therapy.”
With that approach to care, Nathan McKeefry advises his patients to come to sessions “with an open mind and an expectation of working collaboratively.” Additionally, McKeefry asks his clients to be patient. He said, “Many times, there are no easy answers or solutions.”
Outside of work, McKeefry enjoys listening to music, playing board games, collecting records, and retro video games. He also values spending quality time with his wife, son and friends.
As a Community Health Center, NorthLakes serves everyone regardless of their ability to pay － with a focus on Medicaid patients. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with one of these knowledgeable providers, please call the Clairemont Avenue Clinic: (534) 200-6165.
